The services of an SEO company has quickly become the hottest new tool on the belt of marketing and advertising companies. SEO services and SEO marketing companies are popping up left and right, and many are charging astronomical rates for their services. In spite of high costs, many companies see it as a worthwhile investment in their business as more and more people turn to the internet for locating services and products.

In such a new industry, consumers can be easily coerced into paying high fees while never seeing noticeable results. Many SEO companies will make big claims and grandiose promises, yet fail to follow through. So how can a consumer be sure they’re getting what they pay for?

Is the SEO company SEO certified?

As in many fields of expertise, certification is proof that someone has received training and is qualified to provide a service. It provides a degree of confidence that the company you hire will be able to solve problems and provide solutions and competent service to those who are paying for it.

Of course, greater skill often comes with a higher price tag. At this point you may be wondering if it’s really worth your while (and money) to choose an SEO certified company. After all, what’s the big difference?

1. It shows continuing growth Search engine algorithms change on a regular basis, so SEO marketing professionals need to grow with the internet in order to show continued results. Up-to-date certification proves that a company is growing to meet the immediate need and current trends.

2. It indicates skill level SEO certification separates the trained professional from your average Joe with a laptop and a sales pitch. It indicates the skill level of the company in question and immediately shows whether a company has the potential to live up to its claims.

3. It guarantees competency

While certification isn’t everything in this business, it does guarantee a certain degree of competency in the field. It shows that the company you are paying is capable of getting the job done. Just as you wouldn’t hire just anyone to fill your cavities or remove your appendix, neither can you expect just anyone to have the skill necessary for SEO services. While SEO marketing is hardly brain surgery, it is a science and requires a certain set of skills that must be learned if you hope to see lasting results.

Results – the proof of the pudding

While certification is definitely a good indication of a company’s skill level, the true proof will be in a company’s results. Certification is a good start, but true skill comes with experience and continued growth as times change and new trends in internet marketing arise.

A solid SEO marketing company should have the results to show for their work, and they should be ready to provide solid references for past and ongoing successes. They should be able to point to satisfied customers and provide case histories to show the effectiveness of their process.

Once you find a company that seems to have potential, ask to see their portfolio. Talk to them about other past or ongoing projects, as well as who else they’re working for. In particular, discuss past work in your particular industry.